NHL News: Mitch Marner likely to part ways with Auston Matthews' Maple Leafs and decide between two teams

Mitch Marner remains in the spotlight ahead of becoming a free agent from the Toronto Maple Leafs for the 2025-26 NHL season. Several franchises are interested in signing Auston Matthews‘ teammate, although the 28-year-old forward’s salary expectations are also making headlines.

After playing in Toronto since the 2016-17 season and entering the final year of the major contract he signed in 2019, Marner appears set on exploring new opportunities. The Maple Leafs are reportedly unwilling to meet his asking price of $12 million per season.

With the door open for a change of scenery, Marner looks ready to leave the Maple Leafs behind as the franchise continues to build around Matthews. Many teams are expected to make a push, and even rivals like the Boston Bruins are being mentioned. Among the many interested clubs, two teams are currently considered frontrunners to land the forward, who surpassed 100 career goals this past season.

Which two teams could Marner choose from?

According to NHL insider David Pagnotta, the Vegas Golden Knights and the Los Angeles Kings are emerging as top contenders. “The Kings are high on Marner’s list of teams he’s looking at, higher than the Golden Knights; the Kings will be aggressive in pursuit of him,” reported Pagnotta.

Mitch Marner of the Maple Leafs

A shortlist of teams believed to be approved by Marner’s camp has surfaced in recent hours. While the exact number is unknown, the Golden Knights and Kings are currently leading the race. Meanwhile, the Bruins, San Jose Sharks, Columbus Blue Jackets, and Anaheim Ducks are also monitoring the situation closely.

see also

Not the Maple Leafs: Mitch Marner reportedly names his potential NHL destinations

What is Marner looking for?

The Maple Leafs forward is aiming to sign an eight-year, $104 million deal—an average of $12 to $13 million per season. Any team hoping to land him must be prepared to manage that significant cap hit. Additionally, Marner has reportedly ruled out joining any of the six Canadian teams, as he’s seeking a fresh start in a new environment.